Kings Intensify Push for Kuminga; Westbrook and Carter Remain in Play
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Sacramento, CA — The Sacramento Kings have emerged as the most aggressive bidder for Golden State Warriors restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga, according to Sam Amick of The Athletic. Team officials are holding off on smaller offseason moves while prioritizing a sign-and-trade for the 22-year-old forward.
Amick added that Sacramento is prepared to pivot toward veteran guard Russell Westbrook if talks for Kuminga stall. The Kings have been linked to Westbrook throughout the summer but are unlikely to finalize a deal unless they clear a backcourt slot.
Jake Fischer of The Stein Line echoed the Kings’ continued interest in Westbrook, who finished last season with the Denver Nuggets. While guard Malik Monk is reportedly off the trade block, league sources told Fischer that second-year guard Devin Carter could still be moved.
Carter, selected 13th overall last year, has already been discussed in sign-and-trade proposals for Kuminga, though Golden State is not believed to be interested. The former Providence standout appeared in 36 NBA games as a rookie after a shoulder injury and averaged 3.8 points, 2.1 rebounds and 1.1 assists in 11.0 minutes. In five G League outings with the Stockton Kings, he posted 26.6 points, 9.4 rebounds and 5.4 assists per game on 51.7% shooting.
Kuminga, meanwhile, signaled confidence on Instagram despite what Amick described as a “borderline contentious” contract impasse. The Warriors have offered a two-year, $45 million deal that guarantees $21.75 million, with a team option for 2026/27. Kuminga could instead accept his $8 million qualifying offer, making him an unrestricted free agent next summer.
Both sides have until Oct. 1 to finalize any agreement before the qualifying-offer deadline, and real pressure is not expected until mid-September as training camp approaches.
Source: Hoops Rumors
